Byline: Holman Climax Choir sings to help Newquay RNLI save lives Page Content:

The Holman Climax Choir are still supporting Newquay RNLI lifeboat over 40 years later.

Holman Climax Choir will be singing to “Save our Souls” at the Hotel Bristol. The carol concert will be held on 11th December at 19:45 hrs. All proceeds will be going to Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Station.

Holman Climax Choir held their first event supporting the Newquay RNLI lifeboat station in 1967 and we are honoured to be welcoming them back again this year.
Tickets are priced £5.00 and are available on the door.

If you support any RNLI fundraising event you will be helping someone who gets into difficulties, you will be helping to ensure there will be someone there to help; you will be helping save someone’s life. You will be ensuring that the RNLI maintains their fantastic volunteer lifeboat service and expands their Beach lifeguard service.

Notes to editors

• RNLI Press centre – Want a copy of any RNLI press release? It should be here: RNLI Press Centre
• Join in the fun of RNLI SOS day – the charity’s biggest fundraising day – on Friday 30 January 2009. Visit rnli.org.uk/sos to find out more.
• Newquay RNLI lifeboat day – Sunday 30th August 2009 
• Newquay RNLI lifeboat website – www newquay-lifeboat.org.uk

For more press information please contact:
Tracy Cayton-Smith,
Newquay RNLI Lifeboat Station Press Officer
Tel:  0770 3737 330
Email: tracy@media.newquay-lifeboat.org.uk

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

Byline: Magnox graduates high level of RNLI support Page Content:

A climbing wall event was organised by the 2007 intake of Magnox Graduates - 13 of them in total, based in the South West and South East of the country.   Initially finding a location was very troublesome, but they were fortunate to be granted use of the circus in Broadmead, Bristol on August Bank Holiday Saturday (23rd).

The wall was hired on their behalf by the company (Magnox) so that all the money raised could be donated to the RNLI.   This was done by seeking sponsorship from colleagues, friends and families as well as asking for a donation from  people on the day to have a go on the wall (which raised over £500).   The team managed to climb a total of over 7000m on the day - significantly greater than the  target of 4000m.

Last week, a cheque for £3,371 : 82p was handed over to Burnham-on-Sea RNLI during a conducted tour of the lifeboat station.

Toby Hopkins (Magnox – South) says: "With the majority of Magnox Sites being situated on the coast, supporting the RNLI was a fitting choice. The risks they take makes the sea a safer place, and the dedication of the crew members' we met at Burnham-on-Sea showed how worthy a cause we chose."

Frances Warren (RNLI South-West Area Fund-raising Manager) added: “We are delighted that Magnox have chosen us for their charity challenge. The event was very well organised by the graduates and the amount raised was fantastic. This is enough to purchase protective safety kit for three volunteer crew members.  We are very grateful to Magnox for their support”.

Photo’s included with this release are listed below:-

File name:  magnoxcheque.jpg -  Photographer -  Mike Lang
Frances Warren (RNLI), Emma sales (Magnox – North), Mandy Walker (Magnox – South), Chris Rees (Magnox – South  Hinkley Point), and Hopkins (Magnox – South)

File name:  challenge team.jpg  -  Supplied by Magnox - The Magnox challenge team, at the event

File name:  flying.jpg – Supplied by Magnox - Team members climbing the wall

Notes to editors

Lifeboats in service at Burnham-on-Sea:
A 7.5m Atlantic 75 named Staines Whitfield and a smaller 4.95m D class IB1 inflatable named Puffin.  The station was opened officially on 15th May 2004, but has been operational since December 2003.

RNLI media contacts
For more information about this release please telephone Mike Lang, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07889 815860 or email  mike.lang@btinternet.com, 

Alternatively, telephone Tamsin Thomas, Media Relations Manager RNLI South-West;  07866 68847 or email tthomas@rnli.org.uk.

In the absence of  the above, contact  RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789
 
RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

For details about Burnham-on-Sea RNLI activities, please visit www.burnham-on-sea.com/rnli

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Festive Season Of Shouts for RNLI volunteers in the south west Page Content: Over the coming festive season, RNLI volunteer lifeboat crews across the south west will be prepared to leave their family’s and their celebrations, to help save those in trouble at sea. Last year the charity’s volunteers in the south west* were involved in a total of 16 search and rescues operations over the Christmas holiday period (24 December to 1 January). This year the RNLI is calling on people to support their local crews by joining in the fun on SOS day, its biggest fundraising day, on Friday 30 January 2008.  Today (Thursday 11 December) Father Christmas visited Teignmouth Lifeboat Station in Devon, to say a public thank you to all the RNLI volunteers who’ll be on duty, like him, over Christmas. He also took the opportunity to meet some of the children from Shaldon Primary School: ‘I find it comforting to know that when I am doing my rounds on Christmas eve, the volunteer lifeboat crews are on duty while I am flying over the water. I have the greatest respect for the crews and indeed for the shore helpers who assist in launching the lifeboats, and thank them for their continued watch 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I send them all good wishes for Christmas and the New Year.’  On Christmas Day last year, the RNLI volunteers in Fowey, Cornwall and Dartmouth, Devon were all requested to launch by the Coastguard to investigate reports of dinghies drifting in their local harbours, concerned that someone may have fallen overboard. Despite being early on Christmas day morning, the whole crew at Fowey, minus three volunteers who were away on holiday, turned out for the shout. For the crew at Dartmouth, whose inshore lifeboat station was only opened in November 2007, it was their first Christmas on call and their second ever shout. When the pagers went off at 10.35am, one volunteer was opening presents with his family, and another was preparing their family’s traditional Christmas breakfast. One of the crew was really not expecting the shout, and at first didn’t even realise it was the sound of the pager, mistaking it for a fire alarm. Both dinghies in Fowey and Dartmouth were quickly recovered and re-moored, and the area searched before they were all back on dry land and able to return to their families. Fowey’s service report, reported that once the shout was complete 'all hands returned home to continue stuffing their turkeys'. One Christmas day in Lyme Regis, Dorset, a member of the RNLI crew was walking home, having enjoyed the festive celebrations, when his pager went off. He waved down a passing motorist with the immortal shout ‘Take me to Lyme Regis Harbour’. The motorist obliged, dropped him off, wished him a Merry Christmas and our man rushed into the lifeboat station to be met by the boathouse custodian who asked what the fuss was about. My pager went off said the breathless crewmember, yes said the custodian, it always does at 9pm on a Monday when the system is tested.  Simon Pryce, RNLI Divisional Inspector says; ‘Our volunteer crew are on call 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, and that includes Christmas and New Year. Thankfully the two shouts on Christmas day last year turned out to be minor, and the crew were able to go back to their families and their celebrations. However the crew arrive at the station not knowing what they will face, and it is testament to their dedication that they are prepared to leave their home at Christmas time to go out to difficult, and sometimes dangerous situations to help others in trouble at sea.    While we would urge people to enjoy the region’s coastline throughout the winter and use the Christmas and New Year period to spend time taking part on activities on or near the sea with their families and friends, it is also important that they are fully prepared with the appropriate clothing and equipment and know what to do in an emergency. More information can be found at www.rnli.org.uk ’ The crews don’t just respond to Christmas emergencies either; members of Teignmouth RNLI stand by during a festive season swim on Boxing Day morning. The Walk in the Sea event is organised by the Teignbridge and District RNLI fundraising guild and hundreds of people turn out in fancy dress for the occasion. Robin Martin, RNLI Fundraising and Communications Manager for the south west says there are plenty of ways people can support the volunteer crew and help fundraise for SOS day, even over the Christmas holiday season. He says;   ‘SOS themed fundraising events can be held at any time in the run up to, and on SOS day on Friday 30 January. It’s all about finding an event that suits you; what about turning your festive carol concert into a Sing Our Song SOS event? Or inviting friends and family to a Swap Or Sell their unwanted Christmas presents. You could use the left over Christmas wine and cheese as part of a wine tasting evening Shiraz Or Sauvignon. Or why not use your New Years resolutions to raise some money for SOS, Stop Or Start a new fitness regime, or stop biting your nails. All proceeds will help the charity’s volunteer crews and lifeguards go on saving lives in the south west. For inspirational ideas and RNLI SOS Day fun packs, visit www.rnli.org.uk/sos.’ Notes to editors

• Please find attached three photos.

1. Picture of class three from Shaldon Primary School greeting Father Christmas as he steps ashore from the Teignmouth RNLI Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat
2. A picture of one of the Shaldon Primary School Children visiting Santa’s temporary grotto in the Teignmouth RNLI boathouse
3. The children of Shaldon Primary School, with Father Christmas and volunteer crew members Charlie Woolnough and Matt Slader encouraging people to take part in RNLI SOS day, the charities biggest fundraising day on Friday 30 January 2009

 

• A video capturing the children from Shaldon Primary School greeting Father Christmas as he arrives by Teignmouth RNLI lifeboat is available to download from the RNLI press centre www.rnli.org.uk/presscentre

 

• Since 1990, RNLI lifeboats in the south west have been called out 280 times over the Christmas holiday season (24 December to 1 January). The busiest year for the volunteer crews was 2002, when they launched 29 times, on Christmas day that year, Exmouth, Plymouth, Poole and Swanage lifeboats all launched for a combined total of 6 incidents.

• The South Division of the RNLI covers an area from Weston super Mare in North Somerset, down the north coast to West Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, and up the south coast to Mudeford in Dorset. It also includes the Channel Islands.
• The RNLI is a charity that relies on public donations and legacies to ensure its volunteer lifeboat crews and lifeguards have the very best lifeboats, equipment and training to help them save lives at sea.

 RNLI media contactsFor more information please telephone Tamsin Thomas, RNLI Divisional Media Relations Manager for the South on 07786668847 or Amy Caldwell RNLI Lifeguard Press Officer on 07920 818 807 The RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press.  Key facts about the RNLIThe RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.  A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland 

Byline: Boat breaks mooring after storm in Exmouth Page Content:

Exmouth all-weather lifeboat (ALB) was tasked on December 13th at 8.18am by Brixham Coastguards – after reports of a boat adrift. It was not known at the time whether there were any persons on board.
 
The 20 ft open fishing boat was seen heading toward Orcombe Point along the old channel and waves were breaking over the side. As the Exmouth RNLI ALB neared the boat, the crew were able to establish no persons on board and the buoy still attached. The boat sank before the lifeboat could reach it.

Deputy Launching Authority Manager (DLA) Andy Rodgers said; “At this time of year, with big spring tides and rough weather, it is advisable to check your moorings.
But of course, only to do so when it is safe and the weather is calm.”

Notes to editors
· Exmouth RNLI lifeboat station has been operating since 1858. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to www.exmouth-lifeboat.org.uk
RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Jo Damsell, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07551 635363 or JDamsell@aol.com.

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

Byline: Cryoservice charitable donation for Exmouth RNLI Boathouse Appeal Page Content:

Lawrence Hatfield, CryoService Field Distribution Manager (South) presented the cheque on Friday December 12th outside the new boathouse building works in Exmouth.

Lawrence said; “Each one of our regional depots was able to chose a charity to fundraise for. In our Exeter depot driver Paul Stanton chose the Exmouth RNLI boathouse appeal”

He added; “ The twelve month campaign has been very successful raising over ten thousand pounds for charities nationwide. I think Paul chose a very worthwhile charity and as we will be doing this again next year, I hope the RNLI will benefit further.’

Kevin Riley, Lifeboat Operations Manager said; “It is great to have been part of many supported charities fund raising Initiatives. We fully appreciate people want to spread what they raise. The money raised puts us very close to the final sum for the building, which is terrific news. A little extra push now for fitting out and we are there.”

Notes to editors

• Exmouth RNLI lifeboat station has been operating since 1858. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to www.exmouth-lifeboat.org.uk
• Photo Left to Right: Lifeboatman Dave Preece, Cryoservice Field Distribution Manager (South) Lawrence Hatfield. Exmouth RNLI Coxswain/Mechanic Tim Mock, Exmouth Lifeboat Operations Manager Kevin Riley.
• Cryoservice Information supplied by Lawrence Hatfield  -

Throughout the past year, CryoService ran a charity fundraising campaign at their regional depots throughout the UK. The twelve month campaign was designed to help local charities and raised a total of £10770. Due to the overwhelming success of the scheme, it will be run again next year, and the Company hopes to raise up to a further £14640 for donation to charity. The money raised to date has been donated to some 17 charities chosen by the Company's delivery drivers & technicians across eleven depots. Some of these charities include Barnsley Hospice, NSPCC, Cancer Research UK, RNLI, Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital, Haven Hospice, Butterwick Hospice, Thames Valley Adventure Playground, Help For Heroes, Halton Haven, Worcester Breast Unit, Birmingham Children's Hospital Intensive Care Unit & various county air ambulances.

CryoService supply a range of cryogenic and specialist gases to a wide range of markets in the science, leisure and industrial sectors.
Further information on CryoService can be found on www.cryoservice.co.uk

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Jo Damsell, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07551 635363 or JDamsell@aol.com.

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

Byline: Padstow RNLI lifeboat Coxswain and crew awards ceremony Page Content:

Wednesday evening saw Padstow’s RNLI Lifeboat  Coxswain Alan Tarby  receiving the Thanks of the Institution on Vellum following two dramatic yacht rescues  which took place in June 2007.

Padstow Lifeboat Station President Mr. Peter Prideaux-Brune and his wife Elizabeth attended the ceremony to present Coxswain Alan Tarby with the Institutions thanks on Vellum, Chris Murphy and Luke Chown with framed letters of thanks from the Chairman of the RNLI and crew members Mike England, Neil Simpson, Dave Flide, Tom Norfolk, Ian Kitto and Steve Nicholas with individual letters of appreciation from the RNLI’S Chief Executive.

Tom Mansell, RNLI Deputy Divisional Inspector quoted ‘This was a long, dangerous and difficult service in which Coxswain Alan Tarby displayed first class seamanship, decision making, determination and courage. He was well supported by the excellent teamwork of his volunteer crew.’

Mr. Prideaux-Brune in his speech said ‘He was extremely proud to present the awards to members of the Padstow crew who in his opinion were the ‘Crème De La Crème.’

Later in the proceedings Mr Prideaux-Brune presented a statuette and letter of thanks to Brian Toghill who retired as Deputy DLA and to crewmember Brian Bate Thanks on Vellum Service Award on his recent retirement from the Padstow lifeboat crew.

Notes to editors
· Padstow lifeboat station has been operating since 1827. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to www.rnli.org.uk/padstow         

RNLI media contacts For more information please telephone Sue Norfolk, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07816 250053 / 01841 532902 or Tamsin Thomas, Media Relations Manager South West on 07786 668847 or tthomas@rnli.org.uk or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Rain fails to dampen the festive spirit at Dorset’s RNLI Reindeer Run Page Content: Freezing cold temperatures and icy rain ensured runners at the RNLI’s annual Reindeer Run in Moors Valley Country Park, near Ringwood yesterday (Sunday 30 September) felt suitably at home.  Over 460 people took part in the 10K, and 140 in the 5K run wearing reindeer antlers, all helping to raise vital funds for the RNLI lifeguards in the south west. Carla Rowley, RNLI’s Beach Events Manager was delighted with the enthusiasm shown by all the runners and spectators; ‘The weather is always going to be risk for a run scheduled for the end of November, but the RNLI’s Reindeer Run in Dorset really has become an annual event in the build up to the festive season. We saw some fabulous fancy dress outfits and everyone managed to get into the spirit and enjoy themselves despite the rain and cold. Just about all the 600 runners who had signed up, turned up and took part, and we hope to have raised over £12,000 to help provide the essential lifesaving equipment and training for the RNLI lifeguards.’ Rory Stamp, the RNLI Publications Officer based at RNLI HQ in Poole enjoyed his run, he says; ‘It was really heart warming to see so many different people turn out in aid of the RNLI. All the training and then giving up a bit of the weekend to turn out in the cold and wet - it made me think about the fact that RNLI volunteers do that all the time.  The antlers and fancy dress costumes gave it all a real sense of fun. So many people had a smile on their face, even while running up the nasty hill near the end. I managed to meet my target, which was to finish it in under an hour. The free mince pie they gave me at the finish was the best I've ever tasted!’ Notes to editors  

• Please find attached three pictures of the RNLI’s Reindeer Runners in Dorset, with RNLI mascot, Rooky the Reindeer. Please credit RNLI

 

• The RNLI is a registered charity, which exists to save lives at sea. It relies on voluntary contributions and legacies to ensure its lifeguards and volunteer crews have the very best training and equipment.

 RNLI media contacts For more information please contact RNLI lifeguard Press Officer Amy Caldwell on 07920 818 807 or acaldwell@rnli.org.uk RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press Key facts about the RNLIThe RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Seven RNLI lifeboats in search for missing seaman Page Content:

Seven RNLI lifeboats have been searching a huge area of the North Sea for a seaman who went missing from a ferry earlier today (Tuesday 2 December).

The crewman from the Pride of Rotterdam ferry, en route from Rotterdam to Hull, was reported missing at 5am.

RNLI lifeboats from Humber, Cleethorpes, Skegness, Wells, Cromer, Great Yarmouth&Gorleston and Lowestoft have been involved in the search, along with two RAF helicopters, an independent lifeboat from Caister and shore-based coastguards.

The search has covered an area from Spurn Point in East Yorkshire to 30 miles east of Lowestoft. RNLI Humber Coxswain Dave Steenvoorden, speaking from his lifeboat Pride of the Humber, said it is one of the biggest searches he has ever been involved in.

He added: ‘There has been a phenomenal effort by all the RNLI lifeboat crews and other rescue services. Conditions at sea are very good but it’s extremely cold and we’ve had a huge area to cover in the search.’

Some of the lifeboats have now returned to their lifeboat stations but others are still at sea.
Ends

RNLI media contacts For more information please contact Alison Levett, RNLI Media Relations Manager, North, on 01642 750585 or 07786 668912.
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

Byline: Distressed female rescued from Sunderland Quayside Page Content: Sunderland’s RNLI lifeboat was amongst a host of emergency services that were called to assist a distressed female who was threatening to deliberately jump into the River Wear. Shortly after six o’clock this evening [Monday 1st December] Humber Coastguard contacted the Lifeboat Operations Manager at Sunderland RNLI to requested the immediate launch of their Atlantic 85 Lifeboat “Wolseley”. The request came after Northumbria Police received reports of a distressed female [no details known] being sighted sitting on the edge of Palmers Hill Quay [next to ex-Bonnersfield site], near to Wearmouth Bridge. The RNLI lifeboat was deployed to the scene along with shore-based personnel from Northumbria Police and Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team. After a quarter of an hour police negotiators managed to persuade the female to climb back over the railings before being taken into police custody. Paul Nicholson, Senior Helmsman at Sunderland RNLI said: ‘We were asked to launch and proceed to scene in case the female decided to jump into the river while the police were negotiating with her. Thankfully our rescue skills were not required; as the police successfully managed to talk her into climbing over the railings to safety.’ As a registered charity the RNLI relies on voluntary donations and legacies from the public for its income.ENDS  RNLI media contactsFor more information please telephone either: Paul Nicholson, Sunderland RNLI Press Officer on 07957 494 077 or email - pauldnich@yahoo.co.uk or Anthony Jobling, Sunderland RNLI Assistant Press Officer on 07977 152 399 or email – Anthony.jobling2@btinternet.com As an alternative please contact Alison Levett, Media Relations Manager North on 07786 668 912 or alevett@rnli.org.uk or RNLI Headquarters Public Relations on 01202 336000. RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press For specific information relating to Sunderland RNLI visit www.rnlisunderland.org Key facts about the RNLIThe RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland Notes to editors·         Sunderland RNLI Lifeboat Station is the oldest continually operation lifeboat in the United Kingdom. It was originally opened in 1800 before being adopted by the RNLI in 1865. ·         The RNLI’s annual running costs are over £122M – approximately £335,000 per day.

Byline: Lifeboats call off their search for missing ferry crew member Page Content:

Seven RNLI lifeboats and two search & rescue helicopters called off their search for a crew member who went overboard from ferry in the North Sea.  No one has been found.

The casualty, who’s a crew member on board the ‘roll-on, roll-off’ ferry, The Pride of Rotterdam, was last seen at around midnight last night.  At 05:00 am this morning (Tuesday, 02 December 2008) it was established that he was missing and the ferry issued a mayday call to Yarmouth Coastguard.  

Wells Lifeboat, Doris Mann of Ampthill, was paged to launch at 05:55 am. Initially, six RNLI lifeboats from stations along the East Coast and two search & rescue helicopters took part in the search. They were Humber, Cleethorpes, Wells, Cromer, Great Yarmouth & Gorleston and Lowestoft Lifeboat Stations.  At daybreak they were joined by the lifeboat from Skegness.

The operation was co-ordinated by Yarmouth Coastguard and each lifeboat was given a sector to search along the track the ferry had taken.  Wells Lifeboat covered an area of approximately 100 square miles twenty miles NE of Wells.  Once the lifeboat had completed the sweep of its sector it moved inshore to search the shoreline.  It arrived back on station at 1:00 pm.  The other lifeboats also stood down after they’d completed their searches.

Second coxswain, Robert Smith, who led the search on the Wells Lifeboat said, “The sea temperature was eight degrees Celsius out there.  It was very cold, someone in the water could probably only survive for about twenty to thirty minutes.”

The Pride of Rotterdam was on passage from Rotterdam to Hull and the search re-traced the ship’s course which was approximately a sixty mile long track from Smith’s Knoll, North-East of Cromer to The Humber.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact John Mitchell, Press Officer, Wells Lifeboat Station 01328 710882 or 07831 103 166

RNLI online
For more information on the Wells lifeboat station please go to www.wellslifeboat.org. For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press 

Byline: Exmouth RNLI boats tasked to find elderly man on bitterly cold night Page Content:

The wife of an 83 year old man rang Brixham Coastguards at 8pm on December 3rd, worried for her husband’s safety. The man had rang her earlier at 6.30pm to say he was stuck in the Exe Estuary on a sandbar in his 22ft yacht ‘Moonshadow” and that he would wait until the tide had turned.
 
As it was a bitterly cold night with gales forecast, all three Exmouth RNLI boats were tasked at 8.20pm to search and rescue the man. He was located, cold but well and was checked over by lifeboat crew member Dr Colin May. The yacht had developed engine problems and was towed back to its mooring near Starcross by the Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) and the gentleman was taken back to land by the All Weather Lifeboat (ALB).
 
Kevin Riley, Lifeboat Operations Manager for Exmouth RNLI said; “We took the decision to launch all the boats, including the boarding boat, as it is very cold at this time of year - with temperatures plummeting fast.”

He added; “We urge people, when they are on the water, to maintain communications with the Coastguard, to keep them in the loop. Then should there be a problem, the earlier they can tell them, the earlier we can get things rolling here.”

Notes to editors
· Exmouth RNLI lifeboat station has been operating since 1858. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to www.exmouth-lifeboat.org.uk

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Jo Damsell, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07551 635363 or JDamsell@aol.com.

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

 

Byline: Exmouth RNLI boats tasked to find elderly man on bitterly cold night Page Content:

The wife of an 83 year old man rang Brixham Coastguards at 8pm on December 3rd, worried for her husband’s safety. The man had rang her earlier at 6.30pm to say he was stuck in the Exe Estuary on a sandbar in his 22ft yacht ‘Moonshadow” and that he would wait until the tide had turned.
 
As it was a bitterly cold night with gales forecast, all three Exmouth RNLI boats were tasked at 8.20pm to search and rescue the man. He was located, cold but well and was checked over by lifeboat crew member Dr Colin May. The yacht had developed engine problems and was towed back to its mooring near Starcross by the Inshore Lifeboat (ILB) and the gentleman was taken back to land by the All Weather Lifeboat (ALB).
 
Kevin Riley, Lifeboat Operations Manager for Exmouth RNLI said; “We took the decision to launch all the boats, including the boarding boat, as it is very cold at this time of year - with temperatures plummeting fast.”

He added; “We urge people, when they are on the water, to maintain communications with the Coastguard, to keep them in the loop. Then should there be a problem, the earlier they can tell them, the earlier we can get things rolling here.”

Notes to editors
· Exmouth RNLI lifeboat station has been operating since 1858. To learn more about the lifeboat station go to www.exmouth-lifeboat.org.uk

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Jo Damsell, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07551 635363 or JDamsell@aol.com.

RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

 

Byline: Dungeness RNLI lifeboat responds to fisherman’s ‘may-day’ call Page Content:

Early on Wednesday 3 December 2008, a lone fisherman made a ‘may-day’ call to authorities after his hand was caught in his boat’s winch, 5 miles southwest of Dungeness point. 

The Dungeness RNLI lifeboat arrived on scene to find the casualty had managed to free his hand but had serious injuries to his arm.

Coxswain Stuart Adams put four of his crew on vessel with stretcher to administer first aid and transfer casualty to the RNLI lifeboat. On returning to the Dungeness lifeboat station due to the tide being out, the Coxswain called for the assistance of RNLI tractor at the boathouse to go out into the sea and rendezvous with RNLI lifeboat to transport the casualty to the waiting ambulance on shore.

Casualty was taken to the William Harvey Hospital.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Judith Richardson, Dungeness RNLI lifeboat press officer on mob: 07925 576569 or 01797 320062 or email judith@stumark.freeserve.co.uk

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.
A charity registered in England and Wales No: 209603

Websites: www.dungeness-lifeboat.org.uk
                 www.rnli.org.uk

Byline: RNLI to take on Teignbridge lifeguard service Page Content: Visitors to Teignmouth and Dawlish Warren beaches in Devon can expect an even better lifeguard service from next year, as Teignbridge Council prepares to hand over its lifeguard service to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). The move, representing more than a year of hard work and negotiations, will mean that two of Teignbridge's most popular resorts will benefit from the RNLI's highly trained lifeguards and specialised lifesaving equipment.  Established in 2001, the RNLI lifeguard service is run in partnership with local authorities and private beach owners on a non-commercial basis. In 2009, RNLI lifeguards will provide vital safety patrols on 89 beaches in the south west, working alongside the local volunteer RNLI lifeboat crews to provide a joined up lifesaving service. Cllr David Corney-Walker, Teignbridge Executive Spokesperson for Economic Development and Tourism says; 'This new and improved beach lifeguard service will be a tremendous benefit for visitors to Teignbridge resorts, bringing with it improved equipment and training at no extra cost to taxpayers. The possibility of more lifeguards operating more patrols is a very welcome one, and the move to provide an integrated rescue service from the beach to the open sea will be an added boost to our beaches. With this new opportunity to add value to the service we look forward to a successful partnership with RNLI, a world leader in beach safety.' Steve Instance RNLI Lifeguard Inspectors says the RNLI are delighted to be working with Teignbridge Council, he says; 'The RNLI are looking forward to using our knowledge and expertise as a lifesaving charity to enhance the existing lifeguard service provided by the council. RNLI lifeguards undergo an intensive induction and training programme, which includes training as first responders, these skills and training are backed up by specialised rescue equipment and technical support. RNLI lifeguards also play a big part in delivering vital beach safety education which helps prevent incidents happening in the first place, and we look forward to working with the council to ensure visitors and locals to Teignbridge can enjoy a safe day out at the beach.' The new RNLI lifeguard service is due to start in May 2009 and will provide safety patrols on weekends until peak summer season starts in July when it will become a full time service. In the meantime the RNLI will assess shore side facilities, recruit and train staff, and equip the patrol areas.Mike Schooling, Teignmouth's RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager welcomes the new lifeguard agreement, he said;  'The RNLI will be providing a comprehensive sea and beach safety ring around our popular resort beaches and coast line.' Notes to editors 

• The RNLI is a registered charity, which aims to save lives at sea. It relies on voluntary contributions and legacies to ensure its lifeguards and volunteer lifeboat crews have the very best training and equipment.

 

• As landowner and Local Authority, the Council will retain its duty of care and responsibility for the beaches, ensuring that the service is provided in line with a legal agreement with the RNLI. The Council will also be responsible for providing and monitoring public safety equipment and safety signage.

 

• An official event to launch the RNLI lifeguards service is planned for March 2009, when there will be the opportunity to find out more about the service, the lifesaving equipment used and to meet some of the RNLI lifeguard managers and lifeboat crew from Teignmouth. Details of the event will follow in the New Year.

 RNLI media contacts For more information please contact RNLI lifeguard Press Officer Amy Caldwell on 07920 818 807 or acaldwell@rnli.org.uk Teignbridge Council media contactsTim Borrett, Media and Communications Officer, 01626 215164 or Tim.Borrett@teignbridge.gov.uk RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press Key facts about the RNLIThe RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Stunning Overall Support as Seth Lakeman supports RNLI’s SOS Day 2009 Page Content:

Devon born folk artist Seth Lakeman presented the RNLI with £1,827.28 raised through ticket sales and collections at a one off album launch gig in Perranporth, Cornwall this summer, before taking to the stage in Falmouth as part of this largest ever UK tour in November. 

Seth, who recently launched SOS Day, the RNLI’s biggest fundraising day on 30 January 2009, extended his support by inviting local RNLI crew and volunteers to collect donations at his gigs in Bournemouth, Exeter, Cheltenham and Bristol and Falmouth. Through donations at all five gigs, Seth’s fans raised a further staggering £1,403.73 for the SOS campaign in the south west.

Seth was given a VIP tour of Falmouth’s RNLI lifeboat station and introduced to some of the volunteer crew before the cheque presentation at the gig venue, Falmouth Pavilions on Monday 17 November. After it’s launch at the one off gig at the Watering Hole on Perranporth beach this summer, his critically acclaimed third album Poor Man’s Heaven reached number 8 in the UK charts. 

Seth says;

‘I wanted to try to do something positive in launching the ‘Poor Man’s Heaven’ album, rather than just another gig - and raising money for the RNLI felt appropriate as the new album has such a strong coastal theme.’

One of the albums pivotal tracks Solomon Browne was released as a single on 13 October. The song commemorates the 1981 Penlee lifeboat disaster in which 16 people lost their lives. Seth helped unveil RNLI SOS Day 2009 with a performance of the song aboard an RNLI lifeboat on the River Thames, and urged supporters to get involved on Friday 30 January.

Dave Nicoll, RNLI Area Fundraising Manager for Cornwall says the charity is grateful for Seth’s loyal support, he says;
 
‘The RNLI relies on donations and fundraising events like SOS day to ensure its volunteer crews and lifeguards have the equipment and training needed to continue their lifesaving work. Seth is one of the south west’s most talented stars and we are proud, and extremely lucky to have his support. His beautifully poignant song ‘Solomon Browne’ brings home the courage and bravery of the charity’s volunteer lifeboat crew and lifeguards, and I think the generosity shown by fans at his gigs illustrates it’s impact.’ 

RNLI SOS day 2009 is on Friday 30 January. RNLI supporters around the south west are encouraged to hold an SOS themed event of their choice to help raise vital funds for the charity’s volunteer lifeboat crew and lifeguards.  What about hosting a karaoke night Sing Our Songs, or a dress down day at work or school Spots Or Stripes, or maybe something more energetic after the excesses of the festive season such as Sponsor Our Swim. Absolutely anything goes, and events can be held at any time in the run up to SOS day at the end of January.

For more information and ideas on how to get involved please visit www.rnli.org.uk/sos 

Notes to editors

• Please find attach two pictures:

1. Seth aboard Falmouth’s Atlantic class inshore lifeboat taken before his gig on Monday 17 November 2008, please credit RNLI/Tom Dymond

2.  Seth presenting RNLI Area Fundraising Manager Dave Nicoll with a   cheque for £1,500 before his gig at Falmouth Pavilions on Monday 17 November, please credit RNLI/Simon Culliford

• RNLI volunteers collected donations at 14 of the 25 gigs during Seth Lakeman’s largest ever UK tour, raising a total of £3239.02. A further £1500 was donated from ticket sales for Seth's album launch in Perranporth and £327.28 was collected on that night. Making a grand total of £5066.30 for SOS Day.
• The RNLI is a registered charity, which exists to save lives at sea. It relies on voluntary contributions and legacies to ensure its lifeguards and volunteer crews have the very best training and equipment.

RNLI contacts         
For further information please contact Amy Caldwell, RNLI Lifeguard Press Officer on 07920 818 807 or acaldwell@rnli.org.uk

The RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk or for the latest news www.rnli.org.uk/press.
                                                                                                                                              
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Aberdeen RNLI lifeboat in search for angler Page Content: Aberdeen RNLI lifeboat crew were involved in a search for a man who went missing during the early hours of this morning (Friday 5 December) whilst fishing from rocks six miles south of Aberdeen. A companion of the man raised the alarm after he spotted his friend had gone missing. The Aberdeen all weather lifeboat joined an RAF helicopter, Coastguard and Police teams to search for the man shortly after 6.30am this morning. The lifeboat was stood down shortly after 11am. RNLI media contactsFor more information call Rachel Martin on 07786 668903 or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789 RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press Key facts about the RNLIThe RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. A charity registered in Scotland (SCO37736) and England and Wales (209603). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

Byline: Baltimore RNLI lifeboats launched to nine people missing off Schull Page Content:

In the early hours of this morning (Friday 5th December 2008) the volunteer crewmembers of Baltimore RNLI all weather and inshore lifeboats were called out to reports of nine people missing off Schull in County Cork. 

The missing group believed to be from Switzerland had set off in a 16-foot punt to travel from the mainland over to Coney Island when their engine failed and worsening weather conditions started filling the small boat with water. A tenth person had managed to swim ashore and raise the alarm.

The lifeboat crew launched shortly after 2am this morning and along with members of Schull Community Inshore rescue they proceeded to last known position of the punt. Conditions were very bad with a strong wind and heavy showers, which made visibility poor.  Soon after arriving at the scene it was discovered that eight of nine people missing had made it ashore and were sheltering in a house.  Around this time a casualty was spotted on the beach and recovered onto the all weather lifeboat.

The lifeboat crew passed out warm clothing to the group who were showing early indicators of hyperthermia.  Conditions were deteriorating and a decision was made to bring all of the casualties onboard the Baltimore all weather lifeboat and return to Schull.  There they were met by waiting ambulances and a doctor, which brought nine people to hospital.  One fatality was confirmed.

Commenting on the dramatic events, Balitmore Coxswain Kieran Cottor said, “ This was a terrible night to be out.  Conditions were very bad and the strong winds combined with the heavy showers and spray meant that the small punt filled quickly with water and overturned.  The nine people were lucky to make it to shore.  One of our lifeboat crew is fluent in French and thankfully was able to communicate with the survivor who swam to shore and get quickly apprised of the situation. Sadly it was confirmed by a doctor that one of the group didn’t survive.  It is in situations like these that time is so important.”

Notes to editors
Coxswain Kieran Cotter is available for interview
Blatimore RNLI operates two lifeboats.  A Trent class all weather lifeboat and a Atlantic 75 inshore lifeboat

RNLI media contacts 
For more information please contact Niamh Stephenson, Media Relations Manager Ireland on 087 1254124 or nstephenson@rnli.org.uk  

The RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.ie News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.ie/press.

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the Ireland and the UK. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations with 43 in Ireland. The RNLI is independent of the Coast Guard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Man rescued from Wearmouth Bridge Page Content:

Sunderland’s RNLI lifeboat was amongst the emergency services that were called into action to assist a distressed male on Wearmouth Bridge.

Shortly after half past seven this evening [Saturday, 6th December] Humber Coastguard requested the launch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s (RNLI) Atlantic 85 Lifeboat “Wolseley” from the Sunderland Station.

The request came after Northumbria Police received reports of a distressed male [details unknown] being sighted sitting on the wrong side of safety railings on Wearmouth Bridge.

The RNLI lifeboat was deployed to the scene along with Sunderland Coastguard Rescue Team, Tyne and Wear Fire Brigade, and Officers from Northumbria Police.

Shortly after arriving at the scene Police officers successfully talked the man into climbing back over the railings. Lifeboat and Coastguard volunteers were then informed to stand down from the incident.

Paul Nicholson, Senior Helmsman at Sunderland RNLI Lifeboat Station said, “As we were preparing to launch the lifeboat, we were informed by Humber Coastguard that the Police had been able to recover the man from the bridge.”

As a registered charity the RNLI relies on voluntary donations and legacies from the public for its income.

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone either:

Paul Nicholson, Sunderland RNLI Press Officer on 07957 494 077 or email - pauldnich@yahoo.co.uk or

Anthony Jobling, Sunderland RNLI Assistant Press Officer on 07977 152 399 or email – Anthony.jobling2@btinternet.com

As an alternative please contact Alison Levett, Media Relations Manager North on 07786 668 912 or alevett@rnli.org.uk or RNLI Headquarters Public Relations on 01202 336789.

RNLI online

For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

For specific information relating to Sunderland RNLI visit www.rnlisunderland.org

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK.

The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives.

A charity registered in England and Wales (209603) and Scotland (SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland

Byline: Bangor RNLI crew launch to sighting of red distress flare Page Content:

At 8.10 am on Saturday 6th December RNLI Bangor Lifeboat launched to investigate reports of a red distress flare having been sighted as coming from the northern shores of Belfast Lough.

Within minutes of receiving the rescue alert, volunteer lifeboat crew had assembled and launched RNLI Bangor lifeboat.  Calm seas and fine weather conditions allowed the lifeboat to proceed at full speed to the search area which was between the Salt Jetty and Kilroot Jetty on the northern shores of Belfast Lough.

After an extensive search of the area in conjunction with the Belfast Pilot Boat and Portmuck Coastguard Rescue Team, nothing was found. The search was terminated when enquiries found that there was a high probability that the red distress flare had been fired from ashore.

Steven Carson, helmsman aboard RNLI Bangor lifeboat said ‘It is irresponsible for people to fire distress flares from ashore as it involves RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew having to launch to investigate them.  It could be that somebody else might have been in real trouble at the same time, and in searching for the flare, there might have been a delay in getting to them’. He added ‘Thankfully this did not happen this morning’.

RNLI media contacts
For more information please telephone Kevin Baird, Bangor RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07896702757 or kbaird@quaymarinas.com or Niamh Stephenson
Media Relations Manager Ireland on 00 353 871254124 or nstephenson@rnli.org.uk
or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789
 
RNLI online
For more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press

Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. The RNLI is a charity registered in England, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland.

Byline: Force 10 conditions for Oban RNLI Lifeboat Page Content:

Oban RNLI lifeboat ‘Mora Edith Macdonald’ was called out on yesterday (Friday 5 December) at 5.53pm to assist in the evacuation of a male patient from Craignure, Isle of Mull, to the mainland. An ambulance with two crew had left Oban on the afternoon sailing on the ferry ‘Isle of Mull’ to bring the patient to hospital but, on reaching Craignure the conditions were deemed too severe for the ferry to make the return crossing to Oban leaving the patient, ambulance crew and ambulance marooned on the island The lifeboat arrived at Craignure link span at 6.56pm departing with the patient and ambulance crew at 6.44pm.   During the passage the patient was also attended by Dr Colin Wilson. The lifeboat arrived in Oban at 7.22pm and the patient was transferred to LIDGH by ambulance. The lifeboat was re-fuelled and ready for service at 1.30am.   Coxswain Ronnie MacKillop described the conditions as ‘rather poor’ with storm force gusts of over 60 MPH. RNLI media contacts For more information please telephone J Patrick Maclean, RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 07900 822 202 or Rachel Martin Media Relations Manager Scotland on 01738 443255, 07786 668903 or ramartin@rnli.org.uk or contact RNLI Public Relations on 01202 336789 RNLI onlineFor more information on the RNLI please visit www.rnli.org.uk. News releases and other media resources, including RSS feeds, downloadable photos and video, are available at the RNLI Press Centre www.rnli.org.uk/press Key facts about the RNLIThe RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates over 230 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and has more than 100 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824 its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 137,000 lives. A charity registered in Scotland (SCO37736) and England and Wales (209603). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland